Area & getting there
Cable Bay Campsite, Urupukapuka Island
DOC campsite reference point, not a verified entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -35.22642, 174.23398 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- DOC Maps campsite reference point (WGS84), exact official-page asset ID (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Boat-access tent camping in two zones on the southern side of Urupukapuka Island.
- Book campsite and transport separately. No fires, generators or drones.
- Marine mammal sanctuary restrictions apply to the journey and water activities; consult DOC before travel.
- Camping styles
- tent
- Fees
- Non-powered camping: Adult 18+: NZ$18 nightly 9 February-25 December; NZ$20 26 December-8 February.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; boil before use and confirm supply before travel.
Boat-access tent camping in two zones on the southern side of Urupukapuka Island.
Plan the landing and the carry
Cable Bay is an island tent trip, not a campervan stop near a similarly named mainland beach. If arriving at Otehei Bay, allow for carrying gear over the ridge to camp; DOC gives around fifteen minutes for that walk. Match your baggage to the transfer and your carrying ability. A campsite reservation does not arrange the boat or its return journey.
Choose a zone, then a workable pitch
Pohutukawa and Titoki are the two camping zones. Think about tent footprint, shade and the amount of equipment you can manage without turning your space into a storage area. DOC asks for cooking and gazebo arrangements behind the sleeping accommodation. Cold showers and composting toilets support a simple stay, while untreated taps mean drinking water still needs attention. Bring your own cooking equipment.
Treat island rules as part of packing
Leave animals and generators behind and inspect sealed luggage for unwanted pests before departure. Plan to return with rubbish rather than relying on the limited summer barge service. Marine mammal sanctuary rules affect boating and other water activities around the island, so check the relevant DOC guidance before choosing excursions. Keep a little flexibility in the itinerary for transport changes instead of scheduling a tight onward connection.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
